31 Unusual And Heartwarming Friendships Between Human And Animals

A friendship encompasses trust, care, and harmony. Whether it be humans, animals, mammals, friendships of all kinds do exist. You have heard cows have best friends, and when they are separated from each other, develop negative feelings of loneliness and isolation. In humans, we confide feelings to one another, in hopes burdens can be relieved, as friends give us support.

In the next few lines, you will see some amazing/unusual friendships between humans and animals. They are real, beautiful, and show us no boundaries exist between friends.

1. Gleaming Giraffe And Brunette Beauty

The tallest living terrestrial animal seems engulfed in the woman’s presence. A genuine unbreakable bond between an enchanting lady and a majestic giraffe. Isn’t it inspirational? I would say so, yes.

It is rare that you see a giraffe and a woman become such close friends, making the bond so unusual.

2. Peaceful Girl And Majestic Moose

The largest extant species in the deer family, the moose is seen comforting a girl. The only word that comes to mind is surely, “Aww.”

A moose and a girl comfort each other, building a friendship on comfort, care, and understanding. So lovely to capture in a photograph, as you can see.

3. Smitten Cheetah And Lovely Man

Who says cheetahs can’t be our friends? Clearly, this claim is simply a myth. Here, we have the world’s fastest land animal kissing a man.

What sets this relationship apart is the fact we have a very dangerous animal so close in contact with a fellow man. If that is not unusual, you would be hard pressed to find what is.

4. Sweet Toddler And Licking Cheetah Cub

“Licktastrophe” is the word that fits this scenario. Who knew that getting your hand licked by a cheetah could be this fun?

How often do you see a baby cheetah licking a little toddler, so gently? It seriously is one of the cutest things I have ever seen.

5. Adventurous Guy And Grizzly Bear

It appears that bears aren’t that dangerous after all. This grizzly bear actually seems calm while looking into the eyes of the old guy.

We hear about bears attacking humans, but when do we see them loving them? Right here, friends!

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6. Childish Bear And Smiling Guy

The bear strikes yet again. The bear seems enamored by just looking at his paw. What must be he be thinking? And looking totally calm, sitting with the smiling man.

Almost like a boyfriend and a girlfriend underneath an apple tree, here the bear has taken the girlfriend’s place, and the guy is very much already there!

7. Naughty Bear And Sultry Lady

The bear is giving this lady a big smooch on the chin, a rare sight for sure.

We have all heard the animated version of beauty and the beast, but this is the real one! The bear is the beast, and of course, the woman being the beauty or goddess. This friendship seems to be more than a friendship, it is love.

8. Monkey And Confused Man

This guy looks almost confused as to why the monkey is in his arms. But, it is certainly very cute isn’t it? Any sort of a friendship – especially one between different species – is a cute one.

We are descendants of the monkeys and it looks like the monkey knows this, as he doesn’t seem to want to get out of the guy’s arms. Forget dogs, monkeys appear to be the real man’s best friend.

9. Mysterious Lady And Tiny Fox

This is a special one. The eyes of the lady and the fox penetrate the viewer, positioned in the exact same spot in a sort of hypnotizing way.

She seems to be protecting the fox, holding it, cradling it in her arms. Friendship is about protection, being there for each other, through thick and thin. This is it!

10. Snuggly Tiger And Comforting Monk

This is so sweet. The tiger is actually cuddling with the monk. They seem to be sharing each other’s company quite well. So lovely, it makes you wish that you could give the tiger a gigantic hug of your own. Alas.

Comforting the tiger, the monk is offering his friendship. It is a mutual respect and understanding; love, affection, and care are primary aspects that are between the two. This is what makes this friendship special and integral.

11. Exceptional Eagle And Perplexed Man

Eagles can be friends and companions also. Just be careful of the beak. Don’t want to let that poke you!

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The eagle is resting his bald head against the man’s shoulder. It almost resembles a moment like when your friend is distraught, terrified, and depressed and you give them a shoulder to lean on.

They offer their love and support in those trying times, and prove that you are there for them. This is that kind of friendship.

12. Slithering Serpent And Little Girl

Just look at the color of that snake. Orange and yellow, with stripes, and circles, that snake is out of the ordinary. This friendship is scary but cool at the same time, and also out the ordinary.

We are always scared of slithering serpents but seems like this little girl is friends with one. The snake also seems quite amazed with this little girl, being a tiny one, if I may add.

13. Old Woman And Ostentatious Monkey

That monkey sure has a wide smile. I think it is trying to express his emotions, thoughts, and feelings to this old woman. The face is quite surprising!

How often do you see monkeys become friends with old ladies? Well, seems like this monkey really likes this particular lady and vice versa. This is so distinct and spectacular.

It seems like their friendship began in the wilderness and has since then taking a new meaning.

14. Ferocious Lion And Daring Teenager

The lion is surrendering himself to this guy. Wow, when do you see this unless you are watching “The Lion, Witch, and The Wardrobe”?

This is no lion from a film, however, this is a real life lion who just happens to be friends with this young teenager. And from the looks of it, their friendship could last a very long time.

15. Elegant Woman And Fox Curled Up Together

This picture is peaceful to look at. You may almost feel sleepy just staring at it.

Time has transformed their friendship into something more abundant, fulfilling, and special. Theirs is a truly loving and gentle relationship.

16. Caring Camel And Wonderful Woman

The time is long gone when humans could be friends with only humans. Camels are great friends as well and after seeing this picture, you can’t help but want a camel friend of your very own.

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Lovely to behold their friendship…it is immaculate and endearing. Such an inspiration to those who believe in long lasting, true, friendships.

17. Terrific Tiger And Brave Guy

This tiger sure is a large one. Beautiful and majestic is the tiger, but even far more heartwarming is the friendship between him and the guy here. Wow, they are going to be dirty after this play session in the muddy water.

The guy here is actually a conservationist and has been protecting the tiger since she was three years old. She is learning to now hunt which just goes to show that taking care of another goes a long way.

18. The Girl And The Birds

Yes, there is a kitten in this picture which doesn’t make it very unusual. The birds in this picture, however, so comfortable with the girl, are the aspect that is the unusual.

19. Crafty Crow And Brilliant Boy

Your best friend can definitely be a crow. Keeping it close to your skin in order to keep warm in the cold winter, playing with him when bored, going outside in the wide and open air, or simply playing a guitar while it rests on your leg. A bird is the perfect friend.

It looks like this present, a best friend as a bird, turned out to be the perfect gift for this little fellow. He has a companion to play with, share feelings, and just do everything with. And it is so nice to see such a diverse friendship.

20. Lovable Lion And Cute Man

Here comes a lion again, just a different perspective. Wow, this friendship is admirable…simply adorable.

Lions seem to get along well with humans apparently, making the list of most unusual friendships with humans.

21. White Bear And Mr. Old Guy

Sleeping with a big, furry, old friend is the best thing, which is clear as day as shown here. I wish I could also take a nap alongside a white bear that is as soft as plush.

Just like lions, bears are another favorite. This is adorable, but admittedly weird.

22. Sea Lion And Murky Man

Just a moment. Is this a sea lion? Well, yes. They sure know how to have fun, whether it be outside or simply spending time in the house.

After going to Sea World, it seems like this man has made a friend with the Sea Lion. And such a cute one at that.

23. Sea Creature And Astonished Man

Looks like this sea creature is close friends with this guy, giving him something of a with a new funky hairdo. I do not know much, but this sure is an unusual and heartwarming friendship.

Sea creatures are not scary after all. They too can be good friends, just like us humans. So, don’t judge…they are just like us, in some ways.

24. Man And Cuddling Lion

Like a baby gets picked up by their father or mother, this tiger is being cuddled by his human friend. Such an amazing sight, you wish you could be there to witness it yourself.

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25. A Boy And His Bird

Little hands of the boy, and little feet of the bird. All snuggled in a nice blanket made of plush, these two friends are spending time in an unusual, but completely heartwarming way.

26. Mammot And Boy

This mammot and boy are both so adorable I can cry out! Just look at the eyes! Having traveled across with his family, this boy came across the mammot and has since been friends with it. Wow, such an amazing story!

27. The Cow And The Girl

Cows and girls can also have friendships, especially when a girl cares this much for an animal. I can’t believe how sweet this is! To be friends with someone, there really are no boundaries, rules, or regulations.

All there needs to be is love, respect, care, and mutual understanding between one another. And that goes for every kind of relationship – whether it be husband and wife, sister and brother or between two friends.

28. Hungry Hippo And Hospitable Human

The hippo looks mighty fine with this man. He seems completely amazed with his new friend, and it looks like they are having a splendid time. I guess they are tailor-made for each other.

Although hippos don’t come to mind when you think of human-animal friendships, seeing this makes you want to be friends with this hippo too.

29. The Whale And The Little Girl

Whales are often just as nice and gentle as humans. That is why a human can be friends with this whale, as the little girl proves here.

30. Friendly Goat And Playful Woman

Goats may be annoying sometimes, but they can also be very good friends. Of course, this lady can trust this goat, as he in particular seems quite nice.

This is another odd pairing, but nevertheless amazing!

31. Eerie Elephant And Brave Child

Elephants are quite cool and majestic in their own way. And this boy sure is having an amazing time, hitching a ride on this one.

Looks like I may need to start making some new animal friends, just like him. If only for a new mode of transportation!

10 Simple Morning Exercises That Will Make You Feel Great All Day

There are lots of studies that show if you do some exercise in the morning, you will be in a better mood all day long. You will have more energy and you will certainly be a better colleague, friend or partner.

One psychologist at Duke University has researched the effects of exercise on depressed patients and he has come to the conclusion that exercise has a definite role in treating this condition and has an important role in preventing people from relapsing.[1] According to the New York Times, scientists have now established that exercise also boosts your brain power.[2]

In addition, there are studies from the Appalachian State University which show that blood pressure can be reduced by doing regular morning exercise.[3]

Here are 10 simple morning exercises that will help you feel great the whole day long. You can include some of them in your morning exercise routine or do them all at home without having to enrol in a gym. Consult your doctor before starting any form of exercise routine if you are new to this.

1. Cat Camel Stretch

Stretching exercises are useful for muscle toning and also preventing arthritis. They can either be dynamic or static.

Dynamic ones such as the cat camel stretch, are particularly useful for doing other exercises in the morning. They are also beneficial at other times of the day, especially after long periods of sedentary work. This one is great for spinal flexibility and is a good warm up exercise.

Kneel down on all fours. Start by rounding your back just like a camel so that your head will try to meet your pelvis. This is the camel position. Then lower and lift your head so that your lower back is arched. This is the cat position. Do these movements slowly and smoothly. About 4 or 5 times.

Here’s a video to guide you through:

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2. Go for a Walk or a Run

This is better done outside so that you can connect with nature but running inside on a treadmill is almost as good. You can time yourself and increase length and time according to your fitness program.

Always have new goals to reach. Start with brisk walking and work up to running. At my age, I am still walking!

The health benefits are considerable. You can build stronger bones and you can help to maintain your weight.

3. Jumping Jacks

Michelle Obama is a great fan of this exercise and has become “Jumper in Chief.”[4] They are great for cardiovascular health and also for toning muscles especially the calves and the deltoids.

Stand with feet together. Jump while spreading your arms and legs. Return to first position and keep going! You can start with doing these for 1 minute and then gradually build up to the number you are comfortable with. Here’s how:

4. Abductor Side Lifts

Watch the video below to see how to do this exercise. These muscles are important because you use them everyday to run, get into the car or onto and off a bicycle. They are very important also for your core stability and prevent the pelvis from tilting.[5]

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Do about 10 to 15 raises for each side like this:

5. Balancing Table Pose

This is a classic yoga pose. It benefits the spine, balance, memory and concentration.

Start with the table pose (hands and knees). Breathe in before starting each movement. As you exhale, raise your left leg parallel to the floor as you raise the right arm, also parallel to the floor. Breathe in as you lower arm and leg. Repeat for the other side. 10 repetitions on each side is a good starting point.

Stand with your feet a bit further out from your hips. Arms are out in front of you. Then lower yourself as if you wanted to sit down until you reach a 90 degree angle. You can go down further if you want to. Then return to the starting position. Repeat 15 times for 2 sets for beginners.

The benefits are that these exercises help with knee stability and can benefit the leg muscles such as quadriceps, hamstrings and calves.[6]

7. Push Ups

You start lying down (face down) but with your body held up at arm’s length. Your hands should be in line with your shoulders. Breathe in as you lower your body. That is fairly easy. Now, as you exhale, you have to get back up to the starting position.

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An easier version to start with is to bend your legs at the knees so you do not have to lift your whole body.

Beginners may take up to a month to be able to do 100 push ups so you will have to start with a very small number and gradually increase it.

This exercise is great for strengthening the chest, shoulders and the triceps. It is a great strengthening exercise for many muscle groups. In fact, most muscles from the toes to the shoulders are being used.

8. Bicycle Crunches

There are numerous crunch exercises targeting the abs. The bicycle crunch is a variation where you work more muscle groups. Aim for 15 to 20 reps to start off with.

Watch the video to see how this is done correctly:

9. Lunges

Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Place your hand on your hips. Take one giant step forward with the right leg. Make sure the knee does not go too far forward, that is, past your toes. The left knee will go down to almost floor level. Alternate the legs as you go on.

Try to do a set of between 8 and 12 reps for each leg. It is important to allow for a day of rest, so this exercise should be done on alternate days, especially if you are using weights.

This exercise is great for strengthening and toning the quadriceps, glutes and hamstrings.

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10. Bicep Curls

You can do this sitting down so if you spend a lot of time on the phone, this is a great exercise to do.

Choose suitable dumbbells or another household object that you can easily hold. Sit down with the dumbbell in your hand. You need to sit forward a bit so that your triceps can lean on your thigh to give you support.

Then bring the weighted arm up to shoulder length and then down again. Exhale as you lift the weight and inhale as you lower it.

Here’re some important notes before you start doing this exercise:

Try to do one or two sets of about ten repetitions for each arm and then switch arms.

These exercises are really useful for toning the arm muscles.[7]In addition, they can strengthen and tone the brachioradialis muscle located in the forearm. These are the muscles we use to pick up things when we flex the arm at the elbow so we use these muscles countless times a day.

You may have to build in a rest day for the heavier exercises, numbers 6–10. On the rest days, you can do gentler stretching exercises and also some walking or running.

Morning exercise is not only a great mood booster, but will help you keep your weight down and also sleep better![8] Start including one or some of these exercises in your morning routine!